Gastroenterologist’s 5-Step Coffee Hack Could Transform Your Gut Health

Coffee,

the world’s most consumed beverage, is a lifeline for many. From helping you open your eyes to giving energy, a cup of coffee does it all. Data says more than 60 per cent of adults drink coffee daily, and so, to make it a pleasant experience, you must know the best way to have it. While coffee has many health benefits, it can also lead to digestive issues and high blood pressure levels. So, there’s a simple five-step hack, as figured out by Harvard-Stanford trained California-based gastroenterologist Dr Saurabh Sethi, who, on social media, shared how he turned his cuppa into an anti-inflammatory powerhouse – the best beverage for your gut health.

How to transform your gut with coffee?

In these five simple steps, Dr Sethi has showcased a gut-friendly way, completely backed by science and his own experience. The first and most important step is to fill your cup with freshly brewed black coffee, which, according to experts, is a powerhouse of antioxidants. Coffee is packed with chlorogenic acids - polyphenolic antioxidants that are also rich in ferulic acid, which has anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effects. For step two, make sure to always add a dash of plant-based milk, like almonds or soy. “You can also add dairy milk if you are not lactose intolerant,” said Dr Sethi.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Saurabh Sethi MD MPH | Gastroenterologist (@doctor.sethi)

After that, the third is the most important one. “Add a pinch of cinnamon, as it helps balance sugar and reduces inflammation,” he added. Cinnamon is a fragrant spice, which, when added to coffee, offers benefits like boosting antioxidants, improving blood sugar control, aiding weight management by reducing cravings, and providing anti-inflammatory effects, while also enhancing flavour and reducing the need for sugar. The spice is loaded with minerals and supports heart health by managing cholesterol, making your morning brew both tastier and more nutritious. Fourthly, add a teaspoon of cocoa powder to the coffee. “It is loaded with polyphenols that feed your good gut bacteria and support brain health. Unsweetened cocoa boosts antioxidants, improves heart and brain health by enhancing blood flow and reducing inflammation, elevates mood through compounds like flavonoids and serotonin precursors, and provides a more balanced energy lift with focus, creating a healthier, flavourful mocha-like drink. For the last step, finish with a spoonful of MCT oil - a supplement made from a type of fat called medium-chain triglycerides. “It gives you clean energy, supports focus, and can even help beneficial microbes thrive,” said Dr Sethi. Adding MCT can make your coffee bulletproof as it boosts the beverage’s fat content. It can also give you more energy and help you feel full longer. Since it's high in fat and calories, start with one teaspoon of MCT oil and work your way up to one or two tablespoons.

Other health benefits of coffee

Moderate coffee consumption offers significant health benefits, which include:

• Boosting energy
• Improving brain function
• Lowering risks for type 2 diabetes
• Lowering the risk of liver disease and certain cancers
• Supporting heart health
• Aiding weight management
• Increasing longevity due to its rich antioxidant content and bioactive compounds.